Favorite Race-Lite (non race) tires?

I know I cant be alone thinking that 29er tires are particularly important, especially since tire weight is more dramatic on 29ers than a 26" wheel. For about a year now Ive been holding my breath for manufacturers to catch on to this more than they have for us XC/Trail guys and offer some more options in the 600 gram or under weight category...

A popular favorite in this group would likely be the Ikon, which I also like a lot. Racing Ralphs are my favorite tire in this category since they offer a bit more grip than the Ikon, however they do wear quickly and can get expensive as an everyday tire...

The Racing Ralph Performance version is a single harder ORC off road compound. Same configuration as the Evo so it goes as fast. It is long wearing in my experience and offers good traction on hardpack at 20-25psi. Best is the price-- 34.10 at Cycleclub for 29x2.25 610g.

I know I cant be alone thinking that 29er tires are particularly important, especially since tire weight is more dramatic on 29ers than a 26" wheel. For about a year now Ive been holding my breath for manufacturers to catch on to this more than they have for us XC/Trail guys and offer some more options in the 600 gram or under weight category...

A popular favorite in this group would likely be the Ikon, which I also like a lot. Racing Ralphs are my favorite tire in this category since they offer a bit more grip than the Ikon, however they do wear quickly and can get expensive as an everyday tire...

The Racing Ralph Performance version is a single harder ORC off road compound. Same configuration as the Evo so it goes as fast. It is long wearing in my experience and offers good traction on hardpack at 20-25psi. Best is the price-- 34.10 at Cycleclub for 29x2.25 610g.

Good point about the performance line.

Originally Posted by shiggy

I do not consider any of those treads to be very useful as trail tires. i will gladly take the "extra" weight to gain all-round grip.

I understand, but thats why were talking about XC racelite tires and not your typical trail tires.

I myself and curious about stans tires, anyone provide feedback on the crows, or ravens?

I've got the renegades on my stumpjumper hardtail, an Sworks in the front, and a control on the rear. I'm pleasently surprised. I almost replaced them before the first ride but i'm glad I didn't. They grip surprisingly well and roll extremely fast. I don't expect them to last very long though, especially since I ride a couple miles on the road to get to the trails near my house. when the rear wears out, I'll probably rotate the front to the rear and put a Specialized Fast Track on the front, its my favorite "XC Lite" tire that I've ridden.

So far my only (stupid and minor) gripe is that the Renegades are LOUD on the road, its 15 minutes of deafening noise until I get to the trailhead.

I've never personally ridden Stans tires, but have ridden with people who have. They don't seem to have a whole lot of grip and don't wear too well. Within a few months of riding (not continuous) you could see through the sidewall and differentiate your finger from fingernail YMMV though